OWRB Adopts Rules Cracking Down On Mining Companies That Waste Water

New state water rules could affect limestone, sand and gravel operations like this Martin Marietta mine above the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer near Mill Creek, Okla.

Credit Joe Wertz / StateImpact Oklahoma

Right now, Oklahoma law requires permits for the removal and use of both ground and surface water. But the water removed by the companies during the limestone and sand mining process fell outside of the rules — until now.

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board last week adopted new regulations on the aggregate mining industry’s use of groundwater.